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WATER OPERATOR – Two Positions Available

Utilities Department, Operations Division, Water Section
$6,238.33 – $8,777.83 Monthly Plus Excellent Benefits

The final three steps (Step F, Step G, and Step H) included in the salary range listed above are available to employees in this job classification after completion of five years of service (Step F), ten years of service (Step G), and 15 years of service (Step H), one year at the prior step, and a good performance evaluation. Initial salary placement is typically at the entry point of the range unless the candidate has prior lateral work experience which may warrant initial placement at a higher step. 

Opportunity to work a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off. 

To foster teamwork and collaboration in the department, organization wide, and in the community, this full-time position works on-site/in-person. 

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Join our team! 

ABOUT THE POSITION
Are you passionate about public service and protecting one of our community’s most vital resources – clean reliable drinking water? The City of Gilroy is seeking a skilled and motivated Water Operator to paly a key role in operating, maintaining, and improving the City’s water distribution and treatment systems. 

In this hands-on and highly impactful role, you will work under the general supervision of the Water Systems Superintendent, perform and lead journey level duties associated with the operation, construction and maintenance of the water system. The Water Operator has advanced understanding of operating the water system in a safe and sustainable manner, including the use of Supervisory Controls and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems as well as an understanding of water quality requirements. The Water Operator may also take direction from a Senior Maintenance Worker. This is a non-exempt classification represented by the AFSCME, Local 101, General Unit. 

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced water professional who values safety, teamwork, and excellence in service, and who wants to make a real difference every day for the residents and businesses of Gilroy. 
 

THE DIFFERENCE YOU’LL MAKE

As a Water Operator, your work directly safeguards public health, fire protection, and quality of life for the Gilroy community. You will ensure safe, high-quality drinking water for thousands of residents and support sustainable water system operations and regulatory compliance. Additionally, you will respond to emergencies and service needs that keep the City running smoothly and help maintain critical infrastructure that supports growth and resilience. Your expertise and dedication will be visible in every hydrant that flows, every meter that reads accurately, and every system that operates safely – often behind the scenes, but always essential.

THE TEAM AND DEPARTMENT
The Water Section is dedicated to providing high quality water and reliable services to our customers in a safe and timely manner. We promote smart, long-term and sustainable use of water resources. We accomplish this by managing our resources, utilizing practical technologies and providing employees with opportunities for growth and achievement.

CANDIDATE PERSPECTIVE
The City of Gilroy is committed to developing it’s employees. As a Water Operator, you’ll have opportunities to expand your certifications, technical expertise, and receive ongoing regulatory, safety, and leadership training. You will learn advanced SCADA, telemetry, and water quality technologies, gain experience in budgeting, contract oversight, and plan review. Whether you’re strengthening your technical mastery or building leadership skills, this role offers meaningful professional growth in a supportive public service environment. 

Working for Gilroy means being part of a collaborative organization that values integrity, respect, and teamwork. The City invests in it’s employees through training, career development, and a supportive work environment where your expertise is recognized and your contributions matter. With a strong focus on safety, infrastructure reliability, and customer service, Gilroy empowers its Utilities professionals to take pride in their work and make decisions that positively impact the community every day. 

EXAMPLES OF FIRST YEAR PROJECTS/ASSIGNMENTS:

• Learn Gilroy’s water distribution and treatment systems, including wells, reservoirs, pump stations, SCADA operations. 
• Support the development of Gilroy’s valve exercising and hydrant flushing program, including record keeping. 
• Assist with Gilroy’s Steel Service Replacement program and keep the project on schedule for completion by July 1, 2028
• Complete required training and work toward Grade I Water Treatment Operator certificate and Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Certificate (if not already possessed). 

The Deputy Probation Officer I/II/III position in the Probation Department will investigate cases of juvenile delinquency or dependency and adult applicants for probation; supervise and counsel juveniles and adults on probation; prepares reports and recommendations for court. Provides professional casework services to adult and juvenile offenders involving the referral, supervision and rehabilitation of juveniles and adults on probation; and provides advocacy and related services to victims of crimes. The Deputy Probation Officer III is the advanced journey level position in the class. This position is scheduled for forty (40) hours per week. 

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Prepares and presents reports and recommendations regarding juveniles and adults for the Superior Court.
• Investigates violations of the law by juveniles and adults, and prepares a variety of reports to the court on individuals under the jurisdiction of the court.
• Analyzes and uses information gathered by interviewing the accused and others involved in a case to assess client needs; develops a supervision plan designed to achieve desired behavioral changes; prepares progress reports.
• Arrests juvenile/adult probationers, or makes arrangements through law enforcement agencies for the arrest of juvenile/adult probationers who violate the law or terms of probation; physically restrains juvenile/adult probationers when necessary.
• Makes financial arrangements for the collection and distribution of fines, restitution and other payments.

Valley Water is searching for top-tier candidates to fill this exciting opportunity. Internal candidates will get first consideration.

Overview:

Are you interested in providing leadership and fostering collaboration in water resources strategies that bridge ecology and infrastructure? Learn more in the posting below.

The Senior Water Resources Specialist within the Water Utility Planning and Fish and Aquatic Habitat Collaborative Effort (FAHCE) Support Unit will be a key driver in implementing the FAHCE program. This is a leadership position that will play a role in developing and executing integrated environmental strategies that protect and restore watersheds, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance the long-term sustainability of Valley Water’s local water supply.

This role will provide senior-level execution of the FAHCE commitments, such as developing non-flow measures, annual reporting, project management, and , as well as supporting other environmental permitting and project management activities for other water utility projects. 

Our Commitment: 
We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.

About Valley Water:
Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.

 

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Lead implementation for the FAHCE Program, ensuring regulatory and programmatic requirements are met.
• Prepare and complete annual reports, manage program budgets, and administer related contracts.
• Coordinate and lead meetings with external partners and interested parties.
• Develop and present Board and committee items, including staff reports and support materials.
• Plan and develop habitat restoration projects aligned with program and regulatory objectives.
• Prepare permitting documentation to support water rights compliance.
• Obtain and update Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements (LSAAs) for Valley Water dams and diversions.
• Provide permitting and environmental review support for Water Utility projects (e.g., pipelines, canals, and treatment plants) as needed.
• Respond to emerging environmental and operational challenges, including efforts to protect water infrastructure from invasive mussels.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:

Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.

Ideal Experience:

• Six (6) years of professional-level experience within the fields of environmental/natural resources permitting, habitat restoration, water supply planning, fisheries, ecology, and/or watershed management. 
• Experience working with State and Federal agencies negotiating permits and ensuring permit compliance.
• Experience in preparing compliance reports.
• Experience in project management.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Work collaboratively and develop common understandings through effective communication
• Improve and streamline environmental review and permitting processes
• Represent Valley Water and engage with environmental regulators, interested parties, and the public 
• Work with different subject matter experts and across all levels of staff in the organization.
• Strong organizational skills with strategic and analytical thinking.
• Principles and practices of project/program budgeting, cost estimation, funding, project/program management, and contract administration.
• Understanding of applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, and ordinances, and how they apply to water utility operations
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Analyze, interpret, summarize, and present technical information and data in an effective manner.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Watershed management, aquatic ecology, and principles of habitat restoration 
• State and Federal regulatory laws, regulations, and natural resource permitting
• Familiarity with Valley Water’s water supply infrastructure 

Ideal Training and Education:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in water resources management, biology, natural resources management, aquatic ecology, fisheries management, geology, physical sciences, earth sciences, or a related field.

 

Required License or Certificate

Utility Planning and FAHCE Support Unit (Position Code 692) 
Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite.

This position is a working level civilian class in law enforcement, performing a variety of        non-sworn duties in support of law enforcement activities.  Incumbents may perform civil, code enforcement, and criminal services including a variety of routine to more complex non-sworn law enforcement and crime prevention work including patrolling assigned areas, answering calls for service and complaints, serving civil papers, providing court room security; and enforcing local ordinances related to public safety and welfare.  As a County Services Officer he/she will enforce Division 14 of the Agricultural Code of the State of California and enforce the County ordinance governing the animal and rabies control program, in an effort to maintain public safety and welfare.  This position is scheduled for forty (40) hours per week.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Process and serve documents involved in civil actions including summons, complaints, claims of plaintiffs and orders; declarations and orders of examinations, Notice of Entries of Judgments, civil and criminal subpoenas, Notice to Vacate Rental Premise and process writs of execution including the preparation of orders for wage garnishment. Works with other law enforcement agencies in matters related to the investigation of crimes and apprehension of offenders.
• Works with other law enforcement agencies in matters related to the investigation of crimes and apprehension of offenders.
• Prepares various reports and case files on investigations, issues citations and warnings for violations of ordinances; files charges with District Attorney as appropriate; testifies and presents evidence in court.
• Performs general office work as required, including but not limited to preparing reports, maintaining records and files, and entering computer data.

DESCRIPTION:

The Department:

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) is a not-for-profit electric municipal utility of Santa Clara, CA, serving residents and businesses for over 120 years. SVP provides power to nearly 55,000 customers, at rates 25 to 48 percent below neighboring communities. SVP is the only full service, vertically integrated publicly owned utility in Silicon Valley owning generation, transmission and distribution assets. As a Public Electric Utility, Santa Clara’s Silicon Valley Power is not driven by profits, as reflected in its significant lower utility rates when compared to other private sector utilities. Silicon Valley Power is community and policy driven, which is reflected in the many green policies that it promotes, reduced rates and its strategic plan. Silicon Valley Power is one of few public electric utilities in California with an upward trajectory of growth. In 2017, Silicon Valley Power also achieved 36% renewable and 72% HGH free energy and, since January 2018, Silicon Valley Power has been delivering GHG-free energy to all residential customers. All this was accomplished while maintaining the lowest electricity rates in Santa Clara County.

The Position: (add details below)

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) is seeking a dynamic, engaging and highly qualified professionals for one vacant unclassified management positions of Principal Electric Utility Engineer in Engineering division under our Customer Development and Project Management groups.

Engineering Division

This  position will lead an engineering team that will include substation engineering, Transmission system engineering and distribution system engineering. This position will be responsible for performing and managing the design of substation and transmission line projects from conception through construction and commissioning. This position will develop standards, specifications, engineering studies, calculations, evaluations, design documents associated with the planning, design, construction and maintenance of SVP substations, Transmission system, distribution system and other utility facilities. The candidates must have extensive experience in High voltage Substation and Transmission line design, plan, standard and specification preparation. The candidates must have proven problem solving skills and  excellent communication skills.

As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.

Additional Information:

Applications must be filled out completely (e.g. do not write “see resume, NA, or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Resume and, 2) Certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. Applications must be submitted by the filing deadline of Friday, February 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW.

The annual salary range for this position is $214,236.60 - $277,243.92. This position may be filled at or near the minimum of the salary range.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in electrical, mechanical, civil or other related field of engineering

Minimum Experience Requirements:

• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in electric utility engineering work
• Candidates from a non-accredited college or university must demonstrate educational equivalency by registration as a professional electrical, mechanical or civil engineer in the State of California

Acceptable Substitution:

• A Master's Degree in electrical, mechanical or civil engineering, or business or public administration from an accredited college may be substituted for one year of experience

License/Certifications:

• Possession of a certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California is required
• Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is required at the time of appointment and for duration of employment

Other Requirements: 

• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment
• May be required to work unusual hours in emergency situations
• Required to pass initial and periodic comprehensive background checks, which may include fingerprinting, to meet Federal, State, and /or industry security requirements

Follow this link to view the entire Class Specification, which includes more information on Typical Duties and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.

Learn more about this exciting opportunity by clicking the link below!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/marinwater/jobs/5188525/landscape-and-facilities-maintenance-coordinator?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Learn more about this exciting opportunity by clicking the link below!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/marinwater/jobs/5177819/watershed-aide-vegetation-management?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

The work assignments can vary from field maintenance to the office environment. Incumbents are encouraged to use various software programs and applications for field verification, audits and reports. Our service area is “right sized” for a wide range of field activities. Ideal candidates will be exposed to small maintenance and customer service tasks to complex system improvements and repairs. Water System Operators will be exposed to GIS use and training in addition to regulatory structure and reporting. You will find a supportive atmosphere that will assist in reaching common goals in water distribution and service. Upward mobility is encouraged through training and education and recognizing the individual’s strengths and experience.

Water System Operator I

This is the entry-level class in the Water System Operator classification series. This class is responsible for providing support for assigned water operations and programs. Initially under close supervision, incumbents with basic maintenance experience learn City infrastructure, systems and facilities, use of tools and equipment, and a wide variety of practices and procedures. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.

Water System Operator II

This is the journey-level class in the Water System Operator classification series responsible for performing the full range of technical duties required to ensure that City infrastructure, systems, and facilities to which assigned are maintained in a safe and effective working condition and provide the highest level of safety for public use. Responsibilities include inspecting and attending to assigned areas in a timely manner, and performing a wide variety of tasks in the maintenance and repair of assigned facilities and systems. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This class is distinguished from Senior Water System Operator in that the latter is responsible for technical and functional supervision of lower-level maintenance staff and for performing the most complex duties assigned to the series.

Senior Water System Operator 

This is the advanced journey-level in the water system operator classification series that performs the most complex duties required to ensure that City infrastructure, systems, and facilities are maintained in a safe and effective working condition and provide the highest level of safety for public use. Responsibilities include inspecting and attending to assigned areas in a timely manner, and performing a wide variety of tasks in the maintenance and repair of assigned facilities and systems. Incumbents regularly work on tasks that are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment. Positions in this classification rely on experience and judgment to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the assigned section. The work involves problem-solving of unique issues or increasingly complex problems without precedent and/or structure. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver work products. This class is distinguished from the chief water operator in that the latter is the full supervisory-level class in the series responsible for organizing, assigning, supervising, and reviewing the work of assigned staff involved in water quality and operations.

A job description, including examples of typical job functions and qualifying knowledge, skills, and abilities, is available by clicking on the Job Description link.

SUPVERVISNG WATER QUALITY SPECIALIST
Utilities Department, Water Section 
$8,000.33 – $11,257.00 Monthly Plus Excellent Benefits

The final three steps (Step F, Step G, and Step H) included in the salary range listed above are available to employees in this job classification after completion of five years of service (Step F), ten years of service (Step G), and 15 years of service (Step H),  one year at the prior step, and a good performance evaluation.  Initial salary placement is typically at the entry point of the range unless the candidate has prior lateral work experience which may warrant initial placement at a higher step.

Opportunity to work a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.

Note: To foster teamwork and collaboration in the department, organization-wide, and in the community, this full-time position works on-site/in-person.

ABOUT THE POSITION
The City of Gilroy is seeking a knowledgeable, motivated, and service oriented Supervising Water Quality Specialist to join our Utilities Department. This vital supervisory role supports the community by ensuring that Gilroy’s potable and recycled water systems meet the highest standards of safety, reliability and environmental compliance.

In this exciting opportunity, the Supervising Water Quality Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Water Systems Superintendent performing journey-level duties and will supervise a variety of work in the collection and testing of water samples, maintenance of records and generation of reports relating to water quality, and research and evaluation of existing and proposed regulations to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal water quality regulations. The Supervising Water Quality Specialist will lead the development and implementation of the Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control Programs and will perform work associated with the operation, construction, and maintenance of the water system. 

This is a non-exempt, supervisory position that is represented by AFSCME, Local 101, Supervisory Unit. 

This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in both field and office environments, enjoy mentoring others and value public service. You will play a key part in safeguarding public health, interpreting data, preparing reports, recommending corrective actions, improving operational practices and support the long-term sustainability of Gilroy’s water resources. 

THE TEAM AND DEPARTMENT
The Water Section is dedicated to providing high quality water and reliable services to our customers in a safe and timely manner. We promote smart, long-term and sustainable use of water resources. We accomplish this by managing our resources, utilizing practical technologies, and providing employees with opportunities for growth and achievement.

CANDIDATE PERSPECTIVE
This position offers exceptional opportunities for professional development by allowing you to gain advanced experience in water quality, distribution, treatment, and regulatory compliance. You will expand your leadership capabilities through supervisory responsibilities, training experience, and mentorship opportunities, while strengthening your technical knowledge in specialized areas such as backflow prevention, cross connection control and SCADA systems, telemetry and advanced water testing equipment. The role also provides access to City-supported professional training, certifications, and continuing education, helping you build expertise that directly supports long-term infrastructure improvements and the modernization of water systems. Altogether, this position establishes a strong foundation for growth into higher supervisory or managerial roles within municipal water operations. 

EXAMPLES OF FIRST YEAR PROJECTS/ASSIGNMENTS:

• Refine improvements to water quality sampling schedules, workflows, and documentation process. 
• Completion of the Annual Water Quality Report, SWRCB Electronic Annual Report and the Annual Water Loss Audit. 
• Implementation of Gilroy’s Backflow Prevention Program. 
• Participate in updating and improving regulatory reporting templates and submission processes. 
• Support hydrant and valve maintenance programs including data tracking and field coordination. 

About Oceanside’s Water Utilities Department & Our Water Treatment Plants
The City of Oceanside is accepting applications for the position of Water Treatment Superintendent in the Water Treatment Plants Division, which is responsible for the efficient production and delivery of safe drinking water to all Oceanside residents.

The Oceanside Water Utilities Department is an innovative and forward-looking organization whose goal it is to ensure ongoing access to safe, affordable drinking water & reliable wastewater collection & treatment services by maintaining top talent, resource resiliency, dependability, and system efficiency.

About the position
Under the general direction of the Water Utilities Division Manager, the Superintendent will supervise, plan and coordinate the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, oversee operation of water testing and labs, participate in capital improvement projects related to water treatment facilities, and perform a variety of related tasks. This position is essential to ensuring our dependable water treatment system continues to operate well.

You should be excited about this opportunity because you will…

• Apply various levels of training and experience to become an integral part of our water treatment system.
• Oversee regulatory compliance and day-to-day operations of water treatment facilities.
• Be progressively relied to manage each aspect of our water treatment plants.
• Collaborate with operation and maintenance staff to improve processes and protect our capital assets.
• Utilize a modernized SCADA system to remotely monitor processes in addition to manually reading and operating the system.

Who we are looking for…
The ideal candidate for this position will be confident in water treatment processes and plant oversight, and will be able to make decisions that ensure safe, efficient and reliable production of drinking water for Oceanside’s residents, businesses and tourists.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.